A Checkered Past

William Foster built the bridge house and wharf in 1902 after receiving a permit from the town to connect the building to the footbridge. In 1903, selectman Cyrus Tupper investigated Foster, who claimed to be a fish dealer, and found that he was using the bridge house as part of a bootlegging operation while Maine was a dry state. Local legend holds that a considerable amount of illegal alcohol entered Boothbay Harbor through a trap door in the floor of the structure. Although many considered it the bridgetender's building, only Foster actually tended the draw. Since about 1909, the building has served a more seasonal role, first as a candy and ice cream shop, then as gift shops and arts and crafts studios under various owners.

Boothbay Harbor, Maine · United States